San José Private Tour: Poás Volcano, Waterfalls & Coffee
Active
8h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
This private day trip from San José blends three Costa Rican highlights into one unforgettable experience: volcanoes, waterfalls, and coffee. Start at Poás Volcano National Park, where you’ll stand on the edge of an active crater and take in its turquoise lagoon and panoramic views. Continue to La Paz Waterfall Gardens, an eco-park of rainforest trails, butterfly and hummingbird gardens, and powerful waterfalls cascading through lush greenery. On the way back, stop at a coffee plantation (Doka Estate or similar), where you can stroll among the rows of plants or visit the café and shop—note that guided tours or tastings aren’t included. With hotel pickup and drop-off, an English-speaking driver, and fully customizable stops, this journey combines Costa Rica’s natural beauty and cultural heritage in a single day.
Available options
San José Private Tour: Poás Volcano, Waterfalls & Coffee
Pickup included
What's included
Fuel and Tolls
Water
WiFi on board
All taxes and handling charges
Professional English-speaking local driver/informal guide
Hotel or custom pickup and drop-off
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
One of Costa Rica’s most famous natural wonders, Poás features an active crater with a steaming turquoise lake that’s visible from a panoramic platform. At over 2,700 meters elevation, the cool cloud-forest setting adds to the drama of this breathtaking landscape. Entrance ticket required.
2
Stop 2
A beautifully designed eco-park that combines five dramatic waterfalls with lush walking trails, cloud-forest gardens, and a wildlife rescue center. Visitors can encounter hummingbirds, butterflies, big cats, and more in an immersive natural setting. Entrance ticket required.
3
Coffee Plantation Stop (Doka Estate or similar). These plantations, nestled on the fertile volcanic slopes, showcase Costa Rica’s coffee heritage. During the ride you’ll have a chance to stop, admire the endless rows of coffee plants, and visit the café or shop if you wish. Please note: this stop does not include a guided coffee tour or tasting, and no tickets are required for the basic stop. Any optional purchases are not included in the ride price.
What's not included
Meals and beverages
Tips and Gratuities
Poás Volcano National Park
La Paz Waterfall Gardens
Licensed guides available to accompany you inside the attractions
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
ES
Important information
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
Specialized infant seats are available
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
For 1-5 people: A spacious minivan will be assigned to your group.
For 6-12 people: A private minibus will be assigned to your group.
Throughout your ride, our drivers serve as informal local guides—sharing stories, history, and local tips at every stop. Please note that drivers are not permitted to enter museums or archaeological areas, but they’ll ensure you make the most of your visit with suggestions and background information before you explore on your own.
Some stops on your itinerary may be closed on the date of travel due to public holidays, maintenance or special events. We recommend verifying opening hours on the attraction’s official website or contacting us before your tour. If a stop is unexpectedly closed, we will try to offer a suitable alternative.
Important notes
Please show this to your driver.
About Costa Rica
Costa Rica is a tropical paradise known for its lush rainforests, stunning beaches, and incredible biodiversity. It's a destination that combines eco-tourism with adventure, offering everything from zip-lining through the canopy to relaxing on pristine shores.
Top Attractions
Arenal Volcano
Arenal Volcano is one of the most iconic natural landmarks in Costa Rica. It's an active volcano surrounded by lush rainforests and hot springs.
Nature
Full day
Free to hike, hot springs vary from USD 20-50
Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve
Monteverde is a world-renowned cloud forest known for its biodiversity and unique ecosystems. It's a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Nature
Full day
USD 25-50
Manuel Antonio National Park
Manuel Antonio is one of the most visited national parks in Costa Rica, offering stunning beaches, lush rainforests, and abundant wildlife.
Nature
Full day
USD 10-16
Must-Try Local Dishes
Gallo Pinto
A traditional breakfast dish made with rice and beans, often served with eggs, tortillas, and natilla (sour cream).
Breakfast
Vegetarian
Casado
A typical lunch dish consisting of rice, beans, salad, plantains, and a choice of meat or fish.
Lunch/Dinner
Can be vegetarian or vegan with modifications
Ceviche
A refreshing dish made with raw fish marinated in lime juice, mixed with vegetables, and served with tortilla chips.
Appetizer
Contains seafood, gluten-free if served without chips
Popular Activities
Zip-lining
White-water rafting
Hiking
Surfing
Kayaking
Beach lounging
Spa treatments
Yoga
Best Time to Visit
December to April
This is the dry season on the Pacific coast, offering sunny days and minimal rain. It's ideal for beach activities and wildlife viewing.
24-30°C
75-86°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Spanish
- Widely spoken: English
- English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited in rural areas
Currency
Costa Rican Colón (CRC)
Time Zone
GMT-6 (Central Standard Time)
Electricity
110VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe, but exercise caution in certain areas
Costa Rica is generally safe for travelers, but petty crime and scams can occur, especially in tourist areas and cities. Be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure
- • Use official taxis or ride-sharing apps
- • Be cautious of strangers offering help or services
Getting there
By air
- Juan Santamaría International Airport • 20 km from San José
- Daniel Oduber Quirós International Airport • 10 km from Liberia
By bus
San José, San Carlos, Limón
Getting around
Public transport
Buses are the most common and affordable way to get around. They are generally safe and reliable, though schedules may be irregular in rural areas.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Local taxi apps
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
San José
La Fortuna
Tamarindo
Day trips
Poás Volcano National Park
50 km from San José • Half day
Poás Volcano National Park offers stunning views of the active Poás Volcano and its crater lake.
Irazú Volcano National Park
60 km from San José • Half day
Irazú Volcano National Park is home to the active Irazú Volcano, offering breathtaking views and unique geological features.
Tortuguero National Park
100 km from San José • Full day
Tortuguero National Park is a remote and pristine wilderness area known for its canals, wildlife, and sea turtle nesting sites.
Festivals
Fiestas de Palmares • January
Carnaval de Limón • October
Festival de las Luces • December
Pro tips
- Visit during the shoulder or off-peak seasons to avoid crowds and save money
- Pack for both warm and cool weather, as temperatures can vary by region and elevation
- Learn a few basic phrases in Spanish to enhance your experience and connect with locals
- Use eco-friendly and sustainable tourism businesses to support conservation efforts
- Be cautious of scams and petty crime, especially in tourist areas and cities
$256
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
